A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Your Samoyeds

If you’re looking for a friendly, loyal, and affectionate dog breed that excels with children and can adapt to different living environments, the Samoyed could be the  ideal pet for you.

From their history and personality type to their dietary needs, we’ll cover all you need to know about this friendly breed.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced breeder, our comprehensive guide will help you successfully raise a Samoyed and enjoy their devoted companionship.

Samoyed History: What Are Samoyeds Bred for?

Samoyeds are an ancient breed of working dog originating in Siberia, where they were bred by the Samoyedic ‘Nenet’ or ‘Enet’people for hunting, herding reindeer, and pulling sleds in the Arctic.

Combined with their loyalty and intelligence, their thick double coats and strong, muscular build made Sammies perfectly adapted to the harsh Arctic conditions. Today, Samoyeds are still used as sled dogs and in dog sporting events.

How Big Do Samoyeds Get?

Samoyeds are a medium-sized dog breed and slightly larger than Huskies.

As puppies, Sammies typically weigh 26-46 pounds, but how big can they get?

Male Samoyeds

Male Samoyeds usually stand between 21 to 23.5 inches tall and have a more imposing, athletic appearance that lends itself to endurance and agility.

Male Samoyeds typically weigh in the range of 45-65 pounds, although it’s not rare to find some individuals tipping the scales at up to 95 pounds.

Female Samoyeds

Female Samoyeds stand a bit shorter, measuring 19 to 21 inches in height at the shoulder, and they typically tip the scales between 35-50 pounds.

Samoyed Temperament: What Is It Like to Own a Samoyed?

This super-friendly and social breed is recognized for its characteristic “Sammie smile.” Though they have a playful side, they’re not known to be destructive, but you must permit them plenty of exercise and attention to keep them happy.

As highly intelligent dogs, Samoyeds can be great candidates for agility and obedience training, though persistence is key as their independent spirit can make things challenging at times!

Also, their reserved nature around strangers can make them excellent watchdogs for your home and family.

Are Samoyeds Good with Kids?

Samoyeds have bundles of energy, making them a great match for children. These dogs have such a sturdy, muscular build too, so they’re able to handle the rough play of excitable kids!

Be wary that while Sammies have great potential as playmates for children, they will need to be well-socialized around your kids from an early age to breed familiarity and a strong bond to prevent aggression or fear.

Always supervise any interactions between your Samoyed and kids, especially younger children who may not understand how to properly interact with dogs.

Teach your children how to approach and pet your Samoyed gently and always make sure they are treating your dog with kindness and respect.

Do Samoyeds Get Along With Cats?

In short – yes, but with some precautions and preparation. Samoyeds have a strong prey drive, which means they have an instinct to chase and hunt smaller animals, so you need to make sure your Samoyed is trained to respect your cat and not view it as prey.

To help this happen, here are some tips to follow:

• Introduce them slowly and carefully: When you first bring your Samoyed home, keep them separated from your cat and introduce them slowly. Let them get a scent of each other through a shut door, and progressively enhance their interaction over some time.
• Supervise their interactions: Never leave your Samoyed and cat alone together until you’re confident they can be trusted together. Supervise their interactions and separate them if necessary.
• Set boundaries: Make sure your cat has a safe space to retreat to if they feel threatened by your Samoyed. This can be a high perch or a separate room with a baby gate.
• Train your Samoyed: Teach your Samoyed basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” This will help them learn to respect your cat and not chase or harm them.

Every animal is different and there’s no guarantee that your Samoyed and cat will get along. With proper training, supervision, and preparation, there’s a good chance they can coexist peacefully in your home.

Samoyeds Intelligence: How Smart Are They?

The Samoyed breed is considered to be above average for obedience and working intelligence and they are ranked 33rd out of the 138 tested breeds. Samoyeds are also known to have high intelligence in the instinctive and adaptive intelligence areas.

This makes them quick to pick up new commands and tricks with ease. They are also known for their excellent memory, which helps them retain commands and recall them when needed.

Samoyeds are also naturally curious which makes them adept at problem-solving and overcoming obstacles in their immediate environment.

Samoyeds excel at tasks that require critical thinking and problem-solving. They are also recognized for their exceptional communication skills with humans, making them superb companions.

How Often Do Samoyeds Bark?

Samoyeds are known to be very vocal, but the extent of their barking can differ from one dog to another.  Some Samoyeds may bark more often than others, while some may not bark much at all.

However, there are some common reasons why Samoyeds may bark more frequently:

• To express anger, anxiety, and excitement (i.e. to go outside, fearful of intruders, etc)
• Hunger
• Attention
• Communicating with nearby dogs and animals
• To communicate loneliness or boredom to you

How to Reduce Excessive Barking?

First, make sure your Samoyed is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation. A tired dog is less likely to bark excessively.

You can also train your Samoyed to be quiet on command. When your Samoyed starts barking, say “quiet” and reward them when they stop barking. Over time, your Samoyed will learn to associate the command with being quiet.

Another option is to use a bark collar. Bark collars emit a sound or vibration when your Samoyed barks, which can help discourage excessive barking. However, it’s important to use bark collars responsibly and only as a last resort.

How Much Sleep Should a Samoyed Have?

Sufficient sleep is vital for these lively dogs to revitalize their energy and uphold their physical and mental health.

On average, adult Samoyeds need between 10-14 hours of sleep a day, whilst puppies will need more, at around 18-20 hours per day. As Samoyeds grow older, they may sleep more, which is typical for dogs of any breed.

If your Samoyed is not getting enough sleep, they may become lethargic, irritable, and less active.

Here are some tips to help your Samoyed get longer, better-quality sleep:

• Create a comfortable sleeping area for your Samoyed. Provide a soft and cozy bed, away from any noise or distractions.
• Ensure that your Samoyed gets enough exercise during the day. A tired dog is more likely to sleep soundly.
• Establish a regular sleeping routine for your Samoyed. This will help them adjust to a consistent sleep schedule and feel more relaxed.
• Avoid feeding your Samoyed a big meal before bedtime. This can cause discomfort and may disrupt their sleep.
• Keep your Samoyed’s sleeping area clean and free of any debris or dirt.

Best Age to Breed a New Samoyed

The ideal age range to breed a new Samoyed is once they are between 18 and 24 months old as this is when they typically reach sexual maturity.

Attempting to breed your new Samoyed too early may lead to health issues for them and their potential litter as your young Sammie is still growing.

Premature labor, stillbirths, and low birth weight are associated with early breeding whilst breeding your Samoyed too late can result in a difficult labor due to decreased fertility.

Best Age to Spay/Neuter a Samoyed

The best age to spay or neuter your Samoyed may vary depending on various factors such as sex, size, and breed. Veterinarians normally suggest that you should spay or neuter your Samoyed between 6 and 9 months of age.

Having your Samoyed spayed or neutered at a young age can decrease the chances of specific health issues like mammary gland tumors, testicular cancer, and prostate disease.

It can also prevent unwanted litter and unwanted behaviors such as aggression, roaming, and marking.

It is recommended to wait until your Samoyed reaches sexual maturity to ensure that their growth plates have closed, which can help prevent orthopedic problems such as hip dysplasia.

If you’re uncertain, consult with your local vet about the right time to spay or neuter your Samoyed.

What Samoyeds Can (And Can’t) Eat?

As a Samoyed owner, you want to make sure you’re feeding your furry friend a healthy and balanced diet.

Foods Samoyeds Can Eat

• Dry or wet dog food: A nutritional-balanced diet containing both dry and wet dog food is essential for maintaining your Samoyed’s health. Speak with your veterinarian to identify the most suitable brand and kind of dog food for your puppy.
• Cooked or raw meat: Samoyeds can eat some cooked or raw meat, such as chicken, bacon, and salmon. Be sure to remove any bones and fat.
• Certain fruits: Some fruits are safe for Samoyeds to eat, including watermelon, apples, and bananas. These fruits are abundant in essential vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants.
• Vegetables: Samoyeds can also eat certain vegetables, such as carrots, beans, and peas. These vegetables are an excellent provider of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.

Foods Samoyeds Can’t Eat

• Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.
• Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Avocado: Avocado contains the fungicide persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
• Onions and garlic: Onions and garlic can damage a dog’s red blood cells and cause anemia.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in dogs.

Consult your vet if your Samoyed struggles to eat any of the above-recommended food groups and get in contact with them immediately in case toxins like chocolate are accidentally ingested.

Are Samoyeds Easy to Train?

Their intelligence and eager-to-please nature make Sammies relatively easy to train. Nonetheless, they can sometimes exhibit stubbornness, so it’s crucial to be patient and consistent in your training approach.

Here are a few tips to make training your Samoyed a breeze:

• Start early: Begin training your Samoyed as soon as you bring them home. Puppies have a shorter attention span, so keep training sessions short and frequent. This will help keep your pup engaged and eager to learn.
• Be positive: Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Reward your Samoyed with treats, praise, and affection when they do something right. This will help them understand what behaviors you want to see more of.
• Be consistent: Consistency is key when training your Samoyed. Use the same commands and rewards every time, and be patient if it takes them a while to catch on.
• Use obedience training: Samoyeds are highly trainable, and obedience training can help them learn basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Not only will this simplify your life, but it will also ensure the safety of your Samoyed in potentially hazardous scenarios.
• Enroll in canine sports: Samoyeds are active dogs that love to play and exercise. Enrolling your Samoyed in activities like agility, flyball, or obedience competitions can help keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Can Samoyeds Swim?

Yes, Samoyeds can swim, although acclimating them to the water might require some patience and training.

Their substantial coat can become burdensome when wet, making their movement through the water more difficult.

With gradual exposure and positive reinforcement, some Samoyeds can learn to swim and even enjoy it.

Start in shallow water and stay close by to provide support and encouragement. You can use toys or treats to entice them into the water and reward them for their efforts. It’s also important to never force your Samoyed into the water or leave them unsupervised.

Can Samoyeds Run Long Distances?

Yes, Samoyeds can run long distances. They have a high endurance level and can easily run for miles without getting tired, as evidenced by their history as tireless hunting and sled-pulling dogs.

If you want to run with your Samoyed, start slow and gradually build up their endurance. Begin with shorter runs and increase the distance over time to help prevent injury and ensure that your Sammie can comfortably keep up with you.

Remember that Samoyeds are built for endurance, not speed so if you’re looking to run short sprints with your dog, a Samoyed may not be the best choice.

Are Samoyeds Hypoallergenic?

While no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic, Samoyeds are often considered good for those with allergies because they produce less dander than many other breeds.

Samoyeds have a thick, fluffy coat that consists of two layers: a soft, dense undercoat insulating them from the cold and a longer, coarser outer coat of guard hairs to ward off dirt and moisture.

They shed their undercoat twice a year, which can be a challenge for allergy sufferers. Daily grooming, brushing, and bathing can help reduce the amount of dander and hair that they shed.

Do Samoyeds Shed?

Yes, their thick double coats mean they shed quite heavily twice a year in spring and fall, brush your Samoyed regularly during these periods to prevent matting and tangling.

Apart from seasonal shedding, Sammies also shed to a lesser extent throughout the year a throughout the year.

Aside from regular grooming, providing a healthy diet, keeping them hydrated, and ensuring they get enough exercise can help keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding.

Can Samoyeds Stay Outside in the Heat?

Samoyeds can tolerate hot weather if you take the necessary precautions to keep them cool and hydrated.

Here are some things you should keep in mind if you want your Samoyed to stay outside in the heat:

• Provide shade: Make sure your Samoyed has access to a shaded area where they can rest and cool down. You can use a canopy, a dog house, or even a tree to provide shade. In case you opt for a dog house, ensure it has adequate ventilation and is not situated in the direct path of sunlight.
• Provide water: Make sure your Samoyed has access to fresh, clean water at all times. You can use a water bowl or a water dispenser.
• Avoid peak heat hours: Try to keep your Samoyed inside during the hottest part of the day, which is usually between 11 am and 4pm. If you need to take your Samoyed outside during these hours, make sure they have access to shade and water.
• Monitor your Samoyed: Keep an eye on your Samoyed for signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. If you notice any of these signs, take your Samoyed inside and provide them with water and a cool, shaded area to rest.
• Use cooling products: You can use cooling products, such as cooling mats, vests, and bandanas, to help your Samoyed stay cool. These products work by absorbing heat from your Samoyed’s body and dissipating it into the air.

Can Samoyeds Stay Outside in the Cold?

Even with the natural insulation that their thick, double coats provide, your Samoyed can still be susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, so it is not recommended to leave them outside in extremely cold temperatures for an extended period.

If you live in an area with cold winters, provide your Samoyed with a warm, sheltered area to retreat to – this could be a heated indoor area or an outdoor dog house that is insulated and protected from the wind.

Monitor your Samoyed for signs of discomfort or distress, such as shivering or lethargy, and bring them inside if necessary.

Dehydration also heightens their vulnerability to cold temperatures, so provides them with ample access to fresh water.

TIP: If you’re going to keep your dog outdoors for long periods,  consider investing in a coat or sweater for your Samoyed.

Can Samoyeds Live In Apartments?

Yes, Samoyeds can live in apartments, but there are some things you should consider before bringing one into your home.

Firstly, Samoyeds are very active dogs and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. This means that even if you live in an apartment, you’ll need to make sure your Samoyed gets plenty of walks and play, perhaps at a nearby dog park.

The limited space in an apartment can also be an issue, so if you have a small home, you may need to rearrange your furniture to ensure your Sammie has room to explore and stretch their legs indoors.

Secondly, their fluffy coats shed quite a bit, so you’ll need to be prepared to clean up after your Samoyed regularly. This can include vacuuming, sweeping, and wiping down surfaces to keep your home clean and free of pet hair.

Are Samoyeds Good Service Dogs?

Yes, Samoyeds have plenty of qualities that make for excellent service dogs since they love companionship, are highly intelligent, and eager to please.

In terms of service dog training, Samoyeds can be trained to perform a variety of tasks, including mobility support. They’re natural strength and endurance can aid handlers with physical tasks such as opening doors, retrieving items, and even pulling a wheelchair.

They can also benefit people emotionally as their warm and friendly temperament makes them a great choice for therapy and emotional support dogs.

Samoyed Mixed Breeds

Samoyeds are often mixed with other breeds to create unique and lovable dogs.

Here are some of the most popular Samoyed mixed breeds:

1. Golden Sammy

A crossbreed between a Samoyed and a Golden Retriever, this breed is celebrated for being friendly, even-tempered, and great with children.

They usually have the face of a Golden Retriever and the coat of a Samoyed and can weigh between 50-75 pounds and stand up to 24 inches tall.

2. Samusky

The Samusky is a mix between a Samoyed and a Siberian Husky. This breed is energetic, intelligent, and loves to play. Typically, they boast a dense, white, or cream-colored coat, and their weight can range from 35 to 65 pounds and stand up to 23 inches tall.

3. Corgi Samoyed

A mix of a Sammie with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, this friendly breed is known for its small to medium-sized build and soft, fluffy coat. They weigh between 20-50 pounds, stand up to 1 foot tall.

4. Samoyedoodle

The Samoyedoodle is a mix between a Samoyed and a Poodle. This breed is famed for its hypoallergenic coat and friendly personality. They usually have a curly coat that is white or cream-colored and can weigh between 45-65 pounds and stand up to 24 inches tall.

5. Samoyed Shepherd

The result of a German Shepherd and Sammie mix, these dogs are intelligent, loyal, and fiercely protective. They usually have a thick coat that is white or cream-colored and can weigh between 50-90 pounds and stand up to 26 inches tall.